Ray Davies reveals he has worked with brother Dave on new demos

The Kinks, Ray Davies and Dave Davies, dressed in school uniform to promote the album 'Schoolboys In Disgrace', London, January 1976. (Photo by Michael Putland/Getty Images)
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Duo have not performed together since 1996

The Kinks‘ Ray Davies has revealed that he has recorded new material with his brother and former bandmate Dave Davies.

In an interview with Rolling Stone, Ray divulged that the pair had been working on demos as long ago as last year, calling his sibling “a good writer”.

“We actually put down a few demos last Christmas,” said Davies. “He came to see me, and he played me a couple of new songs.”

The duo have not performed together since The Kinks split acrimoniously in 1996. Speaking in September, Dave poured cold water on the chances of a reunion gig, saying said he didn’t want it to be “a Ray Davies show where he lets his little brother stand in the corner”.

Responding to the comments, Ray said: “I don’t understand what that’s about. If we do a Kinks show, we’re The Kinks. Ray stands on the right of the stage and Dave stands on the left.”

Asked if there is any chance of a tour, the singer admitted such a reunion might be difficult.

“I can’t think that far forward. Over the years, I’ve been doing a few new tracks with Mick [Avory], our original drummer. You know about the war between Dave and Mick.

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“I don’t work for the United Nations. I’m just a musician. I had a drink with Mick last week, and I asked, ‘What happened to you guys?’ They shared a house in the 1960s. I think some things went on there that created a rivalry.”